I will only add that, from my intimate acquaintance with Mr Manning both professionally and socially I can with confidence bear testimony to his knowledge and experience.
Chemist, and to his high moral qualities.
(Signed) S. H. Gilbert Ph.D., F.R.S., F.C.S.
Copy
From
F. A. Abel Esq. F.R.S.
Chemical Department
Royal Arsenal, Woolwich
4 May 1863
Dear Mr Manning
It affords me sincere pleasure to have the opportunity of recording the very high opinion which I entertain of your attainments as a Practical Chemist and of expressing my conviction that, from your intimate acquaintance with Mineral and Agricultural Chemistry, combined with your skill as an analyst render you well fitted to hold the appointment for which I understand you are about to become a candidate.
Yours very truly,
(Signed) F. A. Abel
Director of the Chemical establishment of the War Department.